David Harris appreciates being member of Patriots despite lack of playing time

FOXBORO -- David Harris spent his first 10 seasons in the NFL with the Jets where he made the playoffs just twice.

After being released by the team in June, Harris signed with the Patriots and even though he's played just seven defensive snaps all season, being on a team so focused on winning has been a good thing.

“It’s been amazing just seeing how everything works here and how everybody works hard,” Harris said Thursday. “Everybody’s dedicated to winning. Just, you always heard everything about the Patriots from the outside, but it’s actually a lot different once you’re actually here and part of it. The attention to detail is amazing here, and I appreciate it.”

Even though he's low on the depth chart, he's used his experience to help mentor some younger players on the defense.

“I think that says a lot about him,” Dont'a Hightower said. “Not just as a football player but as a person, as well. You can take it as younger guys trying to take food out of his kid’s mouth or whatever, but David doesn’t see it as that. He’s taking it as a Patriot. He’s taking it for what it is and what it’s worth. It’s a long season. You never know what’s going to happen or when his number is going to be called. “One thing is for certain, that whenever his number is called, David is going to be ready. It’s not going to be ‘can he still do it?’ or ‘is he capable of doing it?’ I mean, everything’s there. He’s definitely keeping a positive mindset and I know myself and a lot of the younger guys appreciate what he does and what he brings to this team.”

Bill Belichick was complimentary of Harris earlier in the week, saying he's done everything they have asked. Perhaps, Harris just hasn't seen the field because of the quickness of the offenses New England has gone up against in the first five weeks, and he's known for his run-stopping ability.

Whenever Harris' number is called, he will be ready.

“I’m trying to do everything I’m asked to do,” Harris added. “I’m trying to be ready if my number’s called. That’s all I can do as a professional player."